"Gears of Invention" to Spin at Science World

Vancouver, B.C. (March 21-25, 2005) Gadgets, gizmos and incredible inventions take center stage at Science World B.C. this spring as renowned toymaker and children’s entertainer Rick Hartman performs “The Gears of Invention,” a show about science, art and creativity guaranteed to delight the whole family.

“This is a show about the creative genius in all of us,” says Hartman, a former classroom teacher and successful toy inventor who's appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” The Discovery Channel and at the Smithsonian Institution. His patented creations include Pro Thumb Wrestling, The Motorized Ice Cream Cone, and Crazy Cords Friendship Bracelet Factory.

At Science World B.C., he’ll spin a mesmerizing mixture of stories, toys and inventions twice daily, Monday through Friday, March 21-25.

"Rick's effortless ability to engage and inspire a young audience makes
him the perfect choice to take centre stage during Spring Break," says Bryan Tisdall, President & CEO of Science World."We anticipate that his performances will be very popular and look forward to welcoming him to Science World."

In “The Gears of Invention,” Hartman interweaves personal accounts of off-the-wall inventions like a musical ping pong paddle and a pair of three-legged pants, with stories of historic scientific breakthroughs like the light bulb and airplane. Over the course of the 45-minute show, he gradually builds his case with an enormous set of interlocking gears, each emblazoned with an important message about science, creativity and learning. The oversize gears are a striking visual reminder for young audiences and serve as the show’s central metaphor.

“The goal is for kids to realize they already have the skills needed to think like scientists and inventors,” Hartman says. “When those gears are finally connected and begin turning on stage, I hope connections are forming in each child’s mind as well. It’s only when we make the connections that the gears really get spinning.”

Hartman's live performances, hands-on workshops and videos have caught the attention of museums, festivals and educators across North America.

“Rick is a uniquely inspiring and creative educator,” says Michael Judd, former Chief of Education at the Smithsonian Institution’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation in Washington, D.C. “His enthusiasm and ingenuity are infectious."

“Charming and captivating,” declared School Library Journal reviewer Susan Price of London Public Library, Ontario, describing Hartman’s 2002 video release “TheToymaker’s Workshop.”

“A Pied Piper of sorts,” mused Ross Atkin of The Christian Science Monitor. “Wherever Mr. Hartman goes, whether to community centers, schools, folk festivals, or fairs, a trail of children follow.”

For more information on Rick Hartman, “The Teaching Toymaker,” visit his website, www.toyworkshop.com. Information on Science World B.C.’s Spring Break program can be obtained by calling 604-443-7443 or by visiting www.scienceworld.ca on the web.

Science World, a self-supporting non-profit organization, stimulates positive attitudes towards science and technology in a fun interactive environment, promoting the development of a knowledge-based society in British Columbia.